REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
The Regular Council Meeting was held on July 23, 2007 at 7:30 p.m. with Council President Williams presiding. Council members present were Mr. Carey, Mrs. Russell, Mr. McGlumphy, Mr. Slavin, Mr. McGiffin, Mr. Hogan, Mr. Salters, and Mr. Ruane.
Council staff members present were Deputy Police Chief Taraila, Mr. Capuano, Mrs. Mitchell, Mrs. Townshend, Fire Chief Osika, Mr. DePrima, City Solicitor Rodriguez, and Mrs. McDowell.
OPEN FORUM
The Open Forum was held at 7:15 p.m., prior to commencement of the Official Council Meeting. Council President Williams declared the Open Forum in session and reminded those present that Council is not in official session and cannot take formal action.
There was no one present wishing to speak during the Open Forum.
The invocation was given by Chaplain Dixon, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Carey moved for approval of the agenda, seconded by Mr. McGiffin and unanimously carried.
Mr. Carey moved for approval of the Consent Agenda, seconded by Mr. Slavin and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 9, 2007
The Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of July 9, 2007 were unanimously approved by motion of Mr. Carey, seconded by Mr. Slavin and bore the written approval of Mayor Speed.
PROPOSED RESOLUTION - APPOINTMENT OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL PRESIDENT
Due to the resignation of Mayor Stephen R. Speed, an extended vacancy, beginning July 23, 2007, will exist in the Mayor’s seat.
By motion of Mr. Slavin, seconded by Mr. McGlumphy, the following Resolution was unanimously adopted in accordance with Section 15 of the City of Dover Charter:
WHEREAS, Mayor Stephen R. Speed whose term expires May 12, 2008, submitted his resignation as Mayor of the City of Dover effective July 23, 2007; and
WHEREAS, Mayor Speed will be away on military leave and vacation until July 22, 2007; and
WHEREAS, in accordance with Sec. 13 of the Charter, a special election to fill the vacancy is required no sooner than thirty (30) days from the date of vacancy and no later than (60) days after the date of vacancy; and
WHEREAS, in accordance with the provisions of Sec. 15 of the Charter, the Mayor’s absence will be extended, in which case Council shall pass a resolution appointing the Vice-Mayor as Mayor until the Mayor’s position is filled in accordance with Sec. 13, which resolution shall provide that the Vice-Mayor shall have the right to approve council action in accordance with Sec.10 hereof, in which case the Vice-Mayor shall lose his/her vote as Council person until further action is taken by Council.
NOW THEREFORE IT BE RESOLVED by Council of the City of Dover and in Council, met:
1. Council President and Vice-Mayor Beverly C. Williams shall serve as Mayor until the Mayor’s position is filled, in accordance with the provisions of Sec. 13 of the Charter, due to the extended absence and resignation of Mayor Stephen R. Speed and during this period of time Beverly C. Williams, acting as Mayor, shall have the right to approve or disapprove Council action in accordance with the provision of Sec. 10 of the Charter, in which case she shall lose her right to vote as Councilperson until further action is taken by Council. Upon the election and installation of a new Mayor, Vice-Mayor Beverly C. Williams shall return to her position as Vice-Mayor and shall regain her vote as Councilperson.
2. In accordance with Sec. 9 of the Charter, Reuben Salters, the senior member of Council, in terms of length of service, shall assume the duties of Council President and is hereby appointed as acting Vice Mayor and Council President.
3. Further, based on the interpretation by the City Solicitor, the provisions of Sec. 5 of the Charter require a Councilperson who files and runs for Mayor to automatically give up his or her position as Councilperson applies only to general elections and not to special elections, which exist at the present time where the Mayor has resigned during his existing term, any Councilperson who wishes to run for Mayor at the present special election will not be required to give up their position as Councilperson and if he or she is unsuccessful in the special election he or she shall resume their remaining term as Councilperson.
ADOPTED: JULY 23, 2007
(City Clerk’s Office Note: Following adoption of the Resolution, Mr. Salters presided over the meeting as Council President.)
RESOLUTION/PRESENTATION - STEPHEN R. SPEED
By motion of Mr. Carey, seconded by Mr. Ruane, Council unanimously adopted the following Resolution:
WHEREAS, Stephen R. Speed was sworn into office as First District Councilman on May 14, 2001 and during his term, was appointed as a member of the Utility Committee, Parks and Recreation Committee, Chairman of the Legislative and Finance Committee, and as a Liaison to Kent County; and
WHEREAS, after serving one year of his second term, Stephen R. Speed relinquished his seat as Councilman and successfully ran for Mayor, being sworn into office and taking the Oath of Office as Mayor of the City of Dover on May 10, 2004 serving with distinction until his resignation of July 22, 2007; and
WHEREAS, Mayor Speed has been an exceptional community leader, as evidenced by the support he has shown the Police Department in attaining national accreditation, development of a Home Ownership Initiative for the Downtown area, and to the military through his interaction with the United States Navy Academy; and
WHEREAS, Mayor Speed has dedicated countless hours of personal family time to represent the City at various events that were held on nights and weekends; and
WHEREAS, Mayor Speed, whose term expires on May 12, 2008, submitted his resignation, which takes effect July 23, 2007, and has accepted the position of Director of the Airways Science Program at Delaware State University.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and Council express sincere appreciation to Stephen R. Speed and his family for the many dedicated years of service and personal sacrifices made for the good of the community and welfare of the citizens of the City of Dover and recognize that his leadership will be sorely missed.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor and Council wish Mayor Speed and his family success in all future endeavors and direct the City Clerk to make this resolution a part of the permanent records of the City of Dover as a lasting symbol of appreciation and gratitude to Stephen R. Speed.
ADOPTED: JULY 23, 2007
Mayor Williams and members of Council presented Mayor Speed with the Resolution, a Dover Cup, and a Key to the City.
Mayor Speed read the following excerpt from his resignation speech:
“It has been an honor to serve the citizens of Dover alongside the many outstanding employees here at the city. There is a recognizable culture of excellence among the dedicated members of the city staff. I offer them my sincere thanks and appreciation for their dedication and for their vital, generous, and constant help in the performance of my duties. They deserve all of the credit for any successes and advancements made on behalf of the citizens of Dover.
I also thank the members of City Council for their support of the vast majority of initiatives I have proposed. Despite what many people may think, we have agreed on most issues and jointly have tried to make Dover an even better place to live than it already is.
I have met and enjoyed the company and support of many of the citizens and other people who live and/or work in the City of Dover. I will always be grateful to the volunteers and supporters who helped me get elected and to the people who elected me and encouraged me throughout my time as mayor. You have all been absolutely wonderful and your enthusiasm has been humbling. I am truly blessed.”
Members of Council thanked Mayor Speed for his contributions to the City and wished him well in all his future endeavors.
UTILITY COMMITTEE REPORT - JULY 9, 2007
The Utility Committee met on July 9, 2007 with Mr. Carey presiding in the absence of Chairman Ruane.
Tidewater Agreement
The City of Dover has served potable water and provided fire protection service to the Wilmington College building located at 3282 North DuPont Highway since March 2004. This building is located within Tidewater Utility's Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) territory. Staff has been working with Tidewater to develop an equitable agreement which results in the City receiving the right to serve this customer and Tidewater relinquishing its rights under the current CPCN. The result of these negotiations is an Agreement Regarding Water Service Rights. Conditions of this agreement include the following:
►Construction of a twelve-inch (12") diameter water main along the northern property line of Wilmington College in an easterly direction to a proposed interconnection location with Tidewater Utilities. (This project was completed in FY 2007.)
►Construction of valves, vault(s) and meter(s) at the proposed interconnection location. (This project is proposed for FY 2008. Work is to be completed by the Public Utilities Construction Division and expenses are to be equally shared between the City of Dover and Tidewater Utilities.)
Responding to Mr. Snaman, Mr. DePrima, City Manager, stated that if the City bears the entire $50,000 expense of building the pipe, Tidewater will not challenge the loss of Wilmington College as a customer. He noted that the agreement benefits both the City and Tidewater by enabling the buying and selling of water when necessary to either party.
The committee recommended authorizing the City Manager and Finance Director to execute the agreement with Tidewater Utilities regarding water service rights with respect to service at the Wilmington College property, as recommended by staff.
By consent agenda, Mr. Carey moved to authorize the City Manager and Finance Director to execute the agreement with Tidewater Utilities regarding water service rights with respect to service at the Wilmington College property (Exhibit #1), as recommended by the committee. The motion was seconded by Mr. Slavin and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Update - Brown Water
During the Regular Utility Committee Meeting of July 9, 2007, Mrs. Sharon Duca, Water/Wastewater Manager, provided a PowerPoint Presentation which included a water quality overview, expenses, strategy and capital improvements to address the brown water issue and staff's desired results and resources (as on file in the Office of the City Clerk). At the request of members, Mrs. Duca provided the presentation again for members of Council.
Responding to Mr. Ruane, Mrs. Duca stated that the contact chamber will stabilize the water chemistry prior to it being introduced into the distribution system. She noted that other states require this step to ensure water stabilization. Mrs. Duca advised members that the installation of sample analyzers will enable them to test for chlorine residuals which will provide data on the effectiveness of the contact chambers.
Update - Verizon Franchise Agreement Negotiations
Mrs. Mitchell, Finance Director/Treasurer, advised members that they held their first negotiation meeting with Verizon on June 26, 2007. Both the City and Verizon had requests and concerns and each party will gather the requested materials and meet again.
Mrs. Mitchell stated that she did not anticipate additional revenue from new customers. It was her feeling that some customers may switch from Comcast to Verizon.
Mr. Carey moved for acceptance of the Utility Committee Report, seconded by Mr. Hogan and unanimously carried.
PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE REPORT - JULY 10, 2007
The Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee met on July 10, 2007 with Chairwoman Russell presiding.
Presentation - Boys and Girls Club
Mr. Michael Harrington, Jr., President of the Greater Dover Boys and Girls Club Board, provided a presentation on meeting some of the increasing needs of youth in Dover.
Mrs. Lisa Ratliff, Executive Director of the Greater Dover Committee (GDC), advised members that the GDC became involved in the Boys and Girls Club project after an independent study of community needs was performed. The Study identified the need for additional recreational outlets and additional affordable wraparound after school care services for our youth. Mrs. Ratliff clarified that there are many great existing youth organizations in our community, but due to the current growing population, expansion of what is currently available is needed. She commended the City for adding the John W. Pitts Recreation Center at Schutte Park; however, the Center will be at full capacity, even prior to opening its doors which is just one of the many reasons for the presentation. After additional research, the GDC realized that the Greater Dover Boys and Girls Club, in partnership with other organizations, could address some of the critical needs for our youth at an affordable cost for our families if given the proper facilities. She stated that the GDC formed a Task Force, in partnership with the Greater Dover Boys and Girls Club, which is made up of GDC members, Boys and Girls Club Unit Board Members, and other key community individuals. The goal of the Task Force has been to develop a plan for the expansion and development of the Greater Dover Boys and Girls Club and to foster partnerships. Mrs. Ratliff indicated that the presentation will address the current needs, background of the mission, programs of the Greater Dover Boys and Girls Club, and outline the plans for expansion and development. She also noted that all the children shown in the presentation are actual Greater Dover Boys and Girls Club members.
Mr. Tingle, Executive Director of the Greater Dover Boys and Girls Club, introduced additional presenters, Mr. Frank Fantini and Mr. Robert MacLeish, co-chairs of the Task Force and members of the GDC. Mr. Fantini stated that the Greater Dover Boys and Girls Club is the only organization that holistically looks after all the needs of our youth, has a tremendous record of success, is a good citizenship program and allows youth to grow up in a positive environment with positive role models. Mr. Fantini advised members that their goal is to show options that would create a magnet club that would provide the facilities to draw children throughout the City of Dover and to continue to maintain and develop walkthrough neighborhood clubs in various areas.
Mr. Fantini stated that Land Option #1, the preferred site to locate a Boys and Girls Club, is Schutte Park due to its geographic location which is accessible to children that can either walk or bike to the club. Mr. MacLeish indicated that the club would be located adjacent to the John W. Pitts Recreation Center building. Land Option #2 would be to locate the club in a building that would replace the existing Parks and Recreation building on White Oak Road. This option is not as centrally located as the first option and is located on the east side of Route 13. Land Option #3 is to locate the club on the Lewis Farm which is located on the east side of Route 1 and is in the preliminary exploratory stage. This site is not very favorable due to the remoteness from children.
Mr. Fantini introduced Mr. Michael Thomas, Superintendent of the Capital School District, to give his perspective of why the development of Boys and Girls Club facilities are good for the community as a whole and not just Capital School District. Mr. Thomas stated that our children are our future and noted that it is our responsibility to involve our youth in productive activities to develop their character, work ethic, and educational interests. In 1955, the average family was composed of a man, wife, and two (2) children; whereas, in today’s world that figure only makes up for four percent (4%) of the statistical average. He noted the school system is in full support of this project and will continue to work hand in hand with the Greater Dover Boys and Girls Club.
Mr. Fantini stated the State Board of the Boys and Girls Club will include Dover in their next capital campaign and take the lead in raising the majority of the $6M to $8M needed for this project.
Mr. Anthony DePrima, City Manager, indicated that there are some concerns with utilizing Schutte Park for their club due to the proposed building location hindering the expansion potential of the John W. Pitts Recreation Center. Mr. Zachery Carter, Director of Parks and Recreation, concurred.
Mrs. Russell recommended that Mr. DePrima and Mr. Carter explore possible land options for the proposed club and report back to the committee during their August meeting.
Mr. Harrington stressed that a commitment of a determined location must be received within the next few months so that it can be included in their presentation to the State Board of the Boys and Girls Club to acquire funding.
CDBG Action Plan Amendment
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Inspections, stated that approximately one (1) month ago, an application for a business license was received to open a recording studio at 301 W. Loockerman Street. The applicant indicated the studio would be located in the basement of the building and that the work was completed and ready for occupancy. Mrs. Townshend noted that an inspection of the building on June 15, 2007 revealed that a tenant “fit-out” had been performed in the basement without obtaining building permits. Mrs. Townshend indicated that the 2007 CDBG Action Plan allocated $57,000 for a rental rehabilitation for this location and staff is concerned that providing grant funding to a property currently in violation of City codes could send an inconsistent message and set a precedent that may be problematic. Responding to Mr. Lewis, Mrs. Townshend stated the CDBG funds were not associated with the basement project.
Mr. Grant Prichard, Chief Building Inspector, indicated the last renovation permit for this property was applied for in 1998, and the last general permit was for the placement of signs by Ready Staffing. Mr. Prichard stated that Mr. Tolano Anderson, property owner, indicated the wall studs and electric existed in the basement when he purchased the property and that he only closed in the walls. Mr. Prichard then advised Mr. Anderson that a permit was necessary for the work he performed and that a change of use would require a Certificate of Occupancy, a Fire Marshal and building approval, and architectural plans. Responding to Mrs. Russell, Mrs. Townshend stated that Mr. Anderson has completed numerous projects within the City of Dover.
Mr. Anderson indicated that he was given notice of this meeting on Thursday, July 5, 2007, which was not acceptable, and questioned if the item could be tabled until the next meeting. He advised members that he has received no supporting information or citations/violations regarding this meeting or what needs to be corrected to bring the building up to code. The building permit had not been pulled for the building in question. Mr. Anderson noted that the previous owner failed to obtain permits for the work done in the basement and felt he should not be responsible for this work, but is willing to pay for the permitting fees.
Responding to Mr. Lewis, Mrs. Townshend stated that a formal violation has not been issued to date and has only been verbally discussed between Inspection Staff and Mr. Anderson to assist in bringing the building up to code.
Mrs. Russell recommended that the item be tabled until their next meeting so that both parties can try to rectify the problem and present a solution in writing to members. Mr. McGlumphy stated that clarification should be made with regards to what had been done, what needs to be corrected to bring the building into compliance, and what is planned for the future for presentation during their next meeting. Mrs. Horsey noted that Mr. Anderson is a great supporter of the downtown area and felt confident that the City would work with him in resolving the problem at hand.
Update on Report Examining the Cost Differential Between a Geothermal System and a Traditional Air-conditioning System - John W. Pitts Recreation Center
During their meeting of November 28, 2006, members reviewed bids with and without air-conditioning for the construction of the John W. Pitts Recreation Center. They then recommended that staff present a report examining the cost differential between a geothermal system and a traditional air-conditioning system.
During their meeting of June 12, 2007, members reviewed the cost differential between a geothermal system and a traditional air-conditioning system for only the gymnasium area of the John W. Pitts Recreation Center. Mr. Tony DePrima, City Manager, stated that he would provide Mrs. Russell with the payback savings information regarding utilizing a geothermal system for the entire building. Mr. Ruane suggested that Mr. DePrima and Mr. Carter explore the funding or cost sharing possibility available with the State of Delaware and provide a report back to members for review. He also suggested that a report be provided regarding the one hundred wells supporting a potential addition to the John W. Pitts Recreation Center. Members accepted the report examining the cost differential between a geothermal system and a traditional air-conditioning system for the John W. Pitts Recreation Center with the understanding that the concerns expressed by members will be addressed during their next meeting.
Mr. Zachery Carter, Director of Parks and Recreation, stated that an update is not available at this time. A meeting has been scheduled with a representative from Becker Morgan Group, Inc., Mr. DePrima, and himself on Friday, July 13, 2007, and a report will be available at the next meeting.
Proposed Formation of Youth Council
Mrs. Russell stated that during the Washington, D.C. 2006 NLC Congressional City Conference and the Reno, NV 2006 NLC Congress of Cities and Exposition she attended Youth Advisory Committee sessions that were given by youths from Las Vegas, NV and Florida respectively. Mrs. Russell indicated that her main goal is to help make today’s youth civic minded and to explain the importance of voting in elections.
Mrs. Russell indicated that she believed it would be beneficial to both the City and its youth to establish a Youth Advisory Committee for the purpose of providing opportunities for the youth to lead and plan recreation and community service activities, with an emphasis on youth development. She stated the role of the Youth Advisory Committee is to foster increased involvement of youth in the affairs of the municipal government. The responsibilities are as follows:
• Review problems, issues, activities and concerns of youth, especially as they relate to municipal programs and projects of the City of Dover.
• Hold forums on health, safety, recreation, employment and school issues and concerns of youth.
• Make recommendations to the Parks and Recreation Department regarding the planning and implementation of the programs.
Mr. McGlumphy, Mrs. Horsey, and Mr. Lewis concurred with Mrs. Russell and indicated that it is an excellent idea to have a Youth Advisory Committee.
The committee recommended establishing a Youth Advisory Committee.
By consent agenda, Mr. Carey moved for approval of the committee’s recommendation, seconded by Mr. Slavin and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Update - Puncheon Run Watershed Action Team Update
Mr. Scott Koenig, Public Services Manager, stated that DelDOT is moving forward with the South Governors Avenue upgrade, which is fully funded, and will include the replacement of the box culvert located at Governors Avenue with a bridge. The project is expected to cost approximately $15 million and construction is expected to start in early Spring of 2008. He also indicated that the mapping of the stormwater system has begun and the Conservation District is working with URS Corporation on a hydraulic study on the lower basin. This study will determine the potential choke points within the Puncheon Run, including flood elevation information, with the preliminary report being completed by August 31, 2007.
Mr. Koenig noted that the next Puncheon Run Watershed Action Team meeting will be held July 25, 2007. Responding to Mrs. Russell, Mr. Koenig stated additional mailing lists, which will be used to notify adjacent property owners, will be created by the City as future projects are developed.
Update - John W. Pitts Recreation Center
Mr. Zachery Carter, Director of Parks and Recreation, advised members that progress meetings were held on June 12, 2007 and June 26, 2007 and the John W. Pitts Recreation Center Project is currently on schedule. Within the next few weeks the underground utilities will be installed and the metal building should be delivered by the end of July.
Responding to Mrs. Russell, Mr. Carter stated he was not aware of the makeup of the laborers working on the project.
Update - Planning and Funding for New Library
Mr. Richard Thau, Director of the Dover Public Library, advised staff that recruitment is continuing for the Library Project Coordinator and Library Building Committee members. He reminded members that the committee will be involved in the development of a comprehensive building program, marketing, and fund raising campaign.
Update - CDBG Program
Members reviewed the status report provided on the FY 2005 and FY 2006 Program Funds Spent for the CDBG Program. Mrs. Tracey Harvey, Community Development Director, advised members that the 2007 Action Plan has been approved and funding should be available within the next three (3) weeks.
Mrs. Russell requested that Mrs. Harvey start working on the plans for their next workshop.
By consent agenda, Mr. Carey moved for acceptance of the Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee Report, seconded by Mr. Slavin and unanimously carried.
MONTHLY REPORTS - JUNE 2007
By motion of Mr. Carey, seconded by Mr. Slavin, the following monthly reports were accepted by consent agenda:
Budget Report
Chief of Police Report
City Assessor Report (May and June)
City Manager's Report
Planning and Inspections Report
Dover Fire Department Report
EVALUATION OF BIDS - FY08 STREET PROGRAM
In conjunction with the City of Dover's Capital Investments Plan, it is proposed to rehabilitate various pavement sections throughout the City of Dover during Fiscal 2008. The following locations are to be completed under the FY-2008 Street Program:
George Washington Drive West Street East Alley
Andrew Drive State Street West Alley (Loockerman Street to Fulton Street)
Morris Drive State Street West Alley (Cecil Street to Ross Street)
Cowgill Street State Street East Alley
Clara Street Extended Governors Ave West Alley (Division St to Clara St)
Legislative Avenue Governors Ave West Alley (Columbia Ave to Walker Rd)
Maryland Ave (Pennsylvania Ave to end) Governors Ave East Alley (N. Governors Ave. to William St)
Maryland Ave (Pennsylvania Ave to State St. east alley) Governors Ave East Alley (Columbia Ave to N. Gov. Blvd)
Pennsylvania Avenue West Alley Governors Ave East Alley (Ross Street to Walker Road)
Robbins Hose Station #1 Parking Lot
Staff has reviewed the bids and adjusted the quantities to reflect the work identified for the above referenced locations. Three (3) contractors submitted unit price bids for the work to be performed. Based on the quantities, the estimated contract values are as follows:
George & Lynch, Inc. Dover, Delaware $668,554.85
Daisy Construction Co. New Castle, Delaware $699,022.51
David A. Bramble, Inc. Chestertown, Maryland $735,527.15
The FY-2008 Street Program contract documents allow staff to alter quantities up to 35% without changes to unit prices; therefore, the contract final value may be adjusted to reflect all available funding.
Staff recommended awarding a unit price contract for the FY-2008 Street Program to George & Lynch, Inc. based on the unit prices for each work item. The scope of work for the program will be altered to reflect the funding that has been secured to complete each location. The Public Services Manager may add or delete from the contract based on available funding throughout the contract period and inform the City Manager of such additions or deletions. All work will be paid for at the unit prices bid for work completed and accepted by the City of Dover. The total work authorized under this contract will not exceed the available funding.
Responding to Mr. Ruane, Mr. Koenig, Public Services Manager, stated that in order to keep track of the funds for the contract they will be holding weekly meetings with the Finance Department staff to discuss funding, interest earnings, the flow of the funds through the system, the reimbursements from the State, and tracking the financing by agreement. He noted that additional field controls have been put in place, such as weekly reporting by the contractor and the inspector in order to check the progress being made with the anticipated quantities used to prepare the bid package.
Mr. Hogan requested staff to provide the new street grading list. Mr. Koenig noted that the streets were last graded in 2003; however, he could provide the updated list of scheduled street repairs.
Mr. Slavin noted that many of the repairs included on the list are alleys and when the residents lose access to the alleys they will not be able to access their off-street parking. He requested staff to work in close coordination with the police department during that time with regard to parking.
Mr. Hogan moved to award a unit price contract for the FY-2008 Street Program to the low bidder, George & Lynch, Inc., based on the unit prices for each work item, as recommended by staff. The motion was seconded by Mrs. Russell and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
EVALUATION OF BIDS - 69KV BREAKER
The Electric Engineering Division began a transmission breaker replacement program in FY 06 whereby all the obsolete breakers are replaced with new breakers. This is a multi-year project scheduled to end in FY 09/10, the program envisions replacing four (4) breakers each year. This bid also envisioned the purchase of one (1) breaker for the College Road Substation which will be constructed this year. This bid price is within the engineering estimate for the breaker portion of both CIP projects.
Bids were solicited and advertised according to City Policy by the Contract and Procurement Manager under bid number 07-0054DPU and received as follows:
Siemans Power T&D/NTS $34,100 each
Stuart Irby $39,750 each
HD Supply $40,000 each
Stuart Irby $41,667 each
ABB $44,351 each
National Electrical Systems $47,270 each
Staff recommended awarding the bid to the low bidder, Siemens Power Transmission & Distribution, Inc., at a unit cost of $34,100, with a total expenditure of $170,500.
Mr. Slavin moved for approval of staff’s recommendation, seconded by Mr. Carey and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
2007 SPECIAL MAYORAL ELECTION - CORRECTION TO FILING DEADLINE
Council President Salters advised members that, although the City Charter provides for a 4:00 p.m. deadline for candidates to file nominating petitions for the seats of Mayor and Council, Title 15 of the Delaware Code now stipulates that deadlines shall be no earlier than 4:30 p.m., local time. He noted that the filing deadline for the 2007 Special Mayoral Election had been set for July 27, 2007 at 4:00 p.m. and it was necessary to change the deadline to 4:30 p.m.
Mr. Hogan moved to change the filing deadline for the 2007 Special Mayor Election from 4:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on July 27, 2007. The motion was seconded by Mr. McGiffin and unanimously carried.
TITLE V GRANT - CRIMINAL JUSTICE COORDINATING COUNCIL - OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUSTICE AND DELINQUENCY PREVENTION (OJJDP) (CONSIDERED DURING THE LEGISLATIVE , FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MEETING EARLIER IN THE EVENING)
During the Legislative, Finance, and Administration committee meeting held earlier this evening, members considered staff’s request to partner with Aid in Dover, Inc. to apply for a Title V Grant through the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council - Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP).
The City of Dover's Weed & Seed/Community Prevention Program has been effective in providing programs that keep youth involved in positive activities in an effort to reduce juvenile delinquency in Dover. Programs offered include after school programs, summer day camps, field trips, and a PlayStation Too program on Friday nights. Recently, Aid in Dover, Inc. approached the program's coordinator with a potential grant opportunity through the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. The grant is for $50,000 over five years. Under the proposal, the City of Dover would partner with Aid in Dover, Inc. to secure the grant and provide youth programming through the grant. Traditionally, all of the money provided through the grant has gone to the City of Wilmington. If Dover is able to secure all or a portion of the grant, it would be the first time that another Delaware municipality receives funding through this program.
Mrs. Townshend, Director of Planning and Inspections, advised members that, due to Council President Williams’ relationship with Aid in Dover, Inc., she wanted the grant request to be reviewed by both the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee and Council to ensure a transparent, public process. Mrs. Williams advised members that the application would be reviewed by the City Solicitor, Mr. Rodriguez, and she would not participate in voting on the grant, nor would she benefit from the allowable associated salary.
Mrs. Townshend stated that the City’s commitment would be staff’s time to administer the grant and there would be no related financial commitment. She advised members that the grant would provide additional funds for programs that the City already has in place and they would partner with Aid in Dover, Inc. to provide the services.
The committee recommended authorizing staff to apply for the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council - Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) Title V Grant in partnership with Aid in Dover, Inc., as recommended by staff.
Mr. Slavin moved for approval of the committee’s recommendation, seconded by Mrs. Russell and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
REZONING REQUEST/FIRST READING - 967 SOUTH GOVERNORS AVENUE, OWNED BY HALPERN FAMILY PARTNERSHIP ONE
A request was received to rezone property located at 967 South Governors Avenue, owned by Halpern Family Partnership One. The property is currently zoned C-PO (Commercial/Professional Office) and R-8 (One Family Residence) and the proposed zoning is C-PO (Commercial/Professional Office).